Bayou Catholic Magazine June 2021

INSIDE:

Bayou

Graduation

Catholic

The official magazine of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Pope Francis: ‘Meditation is a way of encountering Jesus’ JUNE 2021 ~ VOL. 41 NO. 10 ~ COMPLIMENTARY

Contents

Features 20 Annual Bishop’s Appeal

By Janet Marcel

Columns 8 Comfort For My People

By Bishop Shelton J. Fabre

12

Pope Speaks

Pope Francis I

13

Questions of Faith

By Father Wilmer Todd

14

Readings Between the Lines

By Father Glenn LeCompte

34 Overtime

By Ed Daniels

In Every Issue 16 Scripture Readings 22 Heavenly Recipes 24 Youth In Action 28 Daily Prayer for Priests,

Deacons and Seminarians

Guest Columns 18 ‘Fratelli tutti’: Chapter 6

By Father Rusty Bruce

Announcements 6 Bishop Shelton J. Fabre’s

mother dies at age 92

26-27 Academic Signing Day for seniors 29

30

Deacon Ambrose Ayzinne dies at age 74

Deacon Gerald Rivette dies at age 86

33

Jon J. Toups leaves diocese

On Our Cover

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

In this file photo, a youth silently prays before the cross at the Lumen Christi Retreat Center in Schriever. In this month’s The Pope Speaks, Pope Francis says that Christian meditation is a way of encountering Jesus and not “a withdrawal into ourselves.” See page 12 for the full column.

June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 3

The collection will be held June 26 - June 27 Thank you for your generosity

Bayou Catholic Heavenly Recipes

How to reach us:

BY PHONE: (985) 850-3132

20 Gerrie Byrne

7

Youth

in action

Gerrie Cooks a:

HEALTHY MEAL 22

BY FAX: (985) 850-3232

BY E-MAIL: bayoucatholic@htdiocese.org

The Bayou Catholic is published monthly, for the people of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux by the H-T Publishing Co., P.O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395.

Subscription rate is $35 per year.

Wyatt Plaisance

The Bayou Catholic is a member of the Catholic Press Association, the National Newspaper Association and an associate member of the Louisiana Press Association.

School: Lockport Middle School Grade: Sixth Church parish: Holy Savior, Lockport Describe your family unit: Sam, father; Melissa, mother; Tarin, sister; Colin, brother; and Bear, my dog Favorite Hobby: Playing outside/playing with my dog, playing football Favorite Movie: The old Star Wars Favorite T.V. Show: Different Strokes Favorite Genre of Music: Old Rock

Easy Veggie Enchiladas

Lawrence Chatagnier

editor and general manager

INGREDIENTS:

What do you find most fulfilling about the ministry of being an altar server? What would you tell a boybell or girl who is 1 orange pepper, considering becoming an altar server?

What I find most fulfilling about being an altar server is just overall the help I am providing toward God and our church community. It makes me feel special because I not only help the priest, but I’m also serving God. When you serve at Mass you have to pay close attention to what’s going on and what your duties are and what they mean, so you do feel closer to God when you are serving for him. I like being part of a team and helping other altar servers when I can. It really just warms my heart to see some of the elderly in our community, listen to their stories and when they tell me that I did a good job doing God’s work. I believe that on the altar Jesus is made present and humbly comes to be with not only me

Bayou

sliced

April LeBouef

business manager

1 red pepper, sliced Janet Marcel 1 zucchini, cut in half lengthwise then sliced staff writer/administrative assistant 1 red onion, sliced 1 jalapeno, sliced Lisa Schobel Hebert 1/4 cup cilantro graphic designer 1 tbsp. olive oil Meridy Liner 1 can black beans accounts receivable/payable assistant 1 can enchilada sauce 1 tsp. oregano 1 tsp. cumin 1 tbsp. taco seasoning.

1 cup Spanish (yellow) rice, cooked 1 cup Mexican cheese blend, shredded Like us on Facebook 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved or 1 avocado, sliced Find us on the web 1/4 cup diced onion www.bayoucatholic.org 1/4 fresh cilantro leaves 1/2 cup sour cream Where to find your Bayou Catholic 8 flour tortillas Bayou Catholic magazine can be found Salt, pepper, garlic to taste

but all of us there. What a special gift and joy it is to serve for God, my priest and my church. I was happy when Bishop (Shelton J.) Fabre allowed us to start serving at Mass again during COVID-19. I couldn’t understand that kids were allowed to play sports, but we weren’t allowed to be altar servers for God; it just seemed wrong to me.

What I would tell a boy or girl considering becoming an altar server is don’t give up even if you mess up and make a mistake. When I first started five years ago, I was very shy and didn’t like to have attention on me, and even today I still worry about making mistakes, but I remember they have wonderful people there that guide us to be better. It’s very rewarding serving

24 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

This month’s heavenly recipe, veggie enchiladas, is a meal that is healthy without sacrificing great taste. The ecipe comes from Morgan City native and Berwick resident Gerrie Byrne, diocesan curriculum specialist. Gerrie and her usband Gerard have been married for 28 years. The Byrne’s ave two children, Caroline, 26 and Blake who is 22. Gerrie was formally an assistant principal at Central Catholic High chool, and a curriculum specialist and elementary teacher at Holy Cross Elementary School for 14 years.

Gerrie enjoys cooking. “I learned to cook from my mother nd grandmother; mostly my grandmother. I feel that cooking rings families together. Both of my children enjoy cooking, specially healthy foods.”

Being a working mom meant planning meals on weekends or the family. “Sundays were menu planning days and grocery hopping days. I would try to cook simple meals. I didn’t want o spend tons of time in the kitchen during the week.

Gerrie received a degree in speech, anguage and hearing from Nicholls tate University and her masters online rom Grand Canyon University. “I think God sent me to the field of education. love curriculum. I love working with

32

BY MAIL: P.O. Box 505 Schriever, LA 70395

God. It may be disorienting seeing a whole crowd of people but those people would only give you positive comments about your work. Work hard and keep on trying and you can be as good as the best altar server in your parish. Being an altar server, you can also have fun and help in many other ways like: Participating in the Eucharistic Procession on the Bayou, Walking Way of the Cross, vacation Bible school, Santa Breakfast and Christmas parade, just to name a few in our church parish. I feel privileged that I’m an altar server and I can help others. Just remember this, your talent is God’s gift to you but what you do with it is your gift back to God. BC

24

Catholic

at all Catholic churches and Catholic schools throughout the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

To pick up a copy, you may also visit the DIRECTIONS: merchants who advertise in our issue. Those Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine the first seven wishing to receive the magazine by mail can ingredients and sprinkle with salt pepper to(985) taste. calland Janet Marcel at 850-3132 or write Bayoupan Catholic , P.O. Box Spread the vegetables out in atosheet and roast 505, Schriever, LA 70395. in the oven for 25 minutes. While the vegetables are Subscription price is $35 ion d uat rice according to package directions. roasting, cook the a r G annually. For the online edition, Drain and rinse the black beans.goMix the black beans to www.bayoucatholic.org

2O2135

with oregano, cumin, taco seasoning and 1/2 can of enchilada sauce in aJune saucepan.

Cookofon medium heat 2021 • Diocese Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 5 for three minutes or until heated through. Place two tablespoons of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a

Announcement

Theresa Fabre

Bishop Shelton J. Fabre’s mother dies at age 92 Theresa Ann Vallet Fabre, mother of Bishop Shelton J. Fabre, passed away Saturday, May 15, at the age of 92, after a brief illness. The Baton Rouge native and retired teacher, lived most of her life in New Roads and is a long-time parishioner of St. Augustine Church parish in New Roads. She is survived by one daughter, Diane F. Signater, and two sons, Bishop Shelton Joseph and Angelo Gerard. She was preceded in death by her husband Luke Fabre Jr., and three sons, Luke III, Clyde Raymond, and Gerald Louis. In an interview in October 2013, Bishop Fabre’s mother says she was very excited when she learned her son had been appointed a bishop. “I always thought he would become a bishop and I think he’ll go even further – I don’t know if I’ll be here for it – but he’s going further. I’m very proud of him, it’s hard not to be.”

6 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

Special

Ecumenical prayer service The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux sponsored an ecumenical prayer service in remembrance of the 13 crew members deceased and not recovered from the Seacor Power lift boat accident on April 13, 2021, recently at St. Joseph Church in Chauvin. Bishop Shelton J. Fabre was the presider. Ministers of the prayer service in attendance were Shelma Chatman of Harvest Cathedral, Houma; Bishop Fabre, Pastor Juan Huertas, First United Methodist Church, Houma.

Dignitaries included Archie Chaisson III, Lafourche Parish president; and Gordon Dove, Terrebonne Parish president.

Scriptural readings, responsorial psalms, intercessory prayers and hymns were part of the service. Bishop Fabre delivered the sermon. The prayer service concluded with a prayer of committal and Benediction.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 7

Comment

A ‘summer spirituality’ can help us guard against the ‘summer fade’ in our lives

Bishop Shelton J. Fabre

For many of us, the summer brings about a very different pace of life.

For some, it is a time of rest and rejuvenation as the pace of work or of school slows down. We might have the opportunity to travel with family or friends and enjoy time with loved ones. For others, perhaps the summer is busy – kids are home from school, summer sports and camps pick up. By the end of summer, you might actually be ready for the summer to end!! But whatever direction it may go, summer often brings about a newness and a difference. The rhythm of the rest of the year is changed, and we have to adjust to a new pace.

No matter how many times we go through this change, times of transition can often present challenges, particularly in our spiritual life. The new pace often makes it harder to stay committed to our routine of prayer and worship that may come more naturally during the rest of the year. Especially after the routine and the intensity of Lent, many of us may be tempted to “take a break” spiritually as we finish our Lenten practices. This “summer fade,” so to speak, is something that can impact many people and can be quite discouraging, especially after what might have been a very fruitful Lenten season. A “summer spirituality” can help us guard against the summer fade so that we can best enter into this new season of the year.

The simple awareness of this reality can help to encourage us whenever we

find ourselves in the fade. Entering into the summer knowing that it will feel very different than the season of Lent, for example, helps us to prepare well for it. It’s normal for our spiritual life to go through seasons just as our lives go through many different seasons.

The spiritual life of a teenager will look very different from the spiritual life of

“

God has great desires for each one of us as we enter into the summer months.

It does not have to be a time where we fade, but can be a time of great renewal and of great spiritual growth.

“

Comfort For My People

a new mother, which will look different than the spiritual life of someone who is newly retired. It’s O.K. that our spiritual life looks different as we go through different seasons of life, even different seasons of the year. We can be confident in the fact that God is always going to be with us, no matter what.

The key is being intentional about seeing how God is with me, because I

8 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

can be sure that he is. In the midst of travel or of sporting events or in times of leisure, God still has a desire to draw closer, to love us more deeply and more completely.

One practical way to help us guard against the “summer fade” is a simple interior check-in every week or even every day. Taking the time to ask myself “How am I with the Lord?” can help us to recognize the fade more quickly and take appropriate action to keep ourselves on track. And the quicker we recognize it, the easier it is to refocus and re-center. It’s like a snowball rolling down the side of a mountain: At the top, we can stop it very easily with just a finger. But if we wait longer at the bottom, it grows and grows and becomes much harder to stop. In the same way, the quicker we recognize our interior fading, the easier it will be for us to refocus and see how God is inviting us to seek him more fully. When I have a hard day, and I don’t examine what’s going on inside, it is easy to feel more and more discouraged and exhausted because many times, I don’t realize what is going on as I fade. But when I have a hard day and take that time to “check-in” interiorly, rather than being discouraged and tempted to abandon my spiritual practices, I can recognize the temptation for what it is, see God’s love for me still present, and re-commit to seeking him with a renewed fervor tomorrow.

God has great desires for each one of us as we enter into the summer months.

It does not have to be a time where we fade, but can be a time of great renewal and of great spiritual growth. Whether the summer brings with it a slower pace or a faster pace, I invite us all to renew our commitment to be with the Lord in the midst of it. May God bless you and keep you safe as we enter into this season together. BC

June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 9

Comentario

Una “espiritualidad del verano” nos puede ayudar a protegernos en contra del “desvanecimiento del verano” de nuestras vidas espiritual pase por varias estaciones, así como nuestra vida pasa por muchas diferentes etapas. La vida espiritual de un adolescente se verá diferente de la vida espiritual de una mamá novata, la cual se verá diferente de la vida espiritual de alguien recién jubilado.

Está bien que nuestra vida espiritual sea diferente mientras pasamos por diferentes etapas de vida, incluso diferentes estaciones del año. Podemos

“

Dios tiene grandes deseos por cada uno de nosotros mientras entramos en los meses de verano.

No debería ser un tiempo para desvanecer, sino puede ser un tiempo de gran renovación y crecimiento espiritual.

“

Para muchos de nosotros, el verano nos trae un ritmo de vida diferente.

Para unos, es un tiempo de descanso y rejuvenecer mientras el ritmo de la escuela y el trabajo disminuyen. Quizá tenemos la oportunidad de viajar con la familia o amigos y disfrutar un tiempo con nuestros seres queridos. Para otros, quizás el verano está ocupado – los niños están en casa, deportes de verano, y recogerlos del campamento.

Al final del verano, tú quizás de hecho ¡estás listo para que termine! Pero en cualquier dirección que tomes, el verano usualmente trae una novedad y una diferencia. El ritmo del resto del año cambia, y tenemos que ajustarnos a un nuevo ritmo.

No importa cuántas veces hemos pasado por este cambio, los tiempos de transición frecuentemente pueden presentar desafíos, particularmente en nuestra vida espiritual. El nuevo ritmo frecuentemente hace más difícil continuar comprometidos a nuestra rutina de oración y alabanza que hacemos con naturalidad durante el resto del año. Especialmente después de la rutina e intensidad de la Cuaresma, muchos de nosotros tendemos a “tomar un descanso” espiritualmente cuando terminamos nuestras prácticas cuaresmales. Este “desvanecimiento de verano” por así decir, es algo que puede impactar a muchas personas y puede ser algo desalentador, especialmente después haber tenido un tiempo cuaresmal muy provechoso.

Una “espiritualidad de verano” puede ayudarnos a protegernos en contra del desvanecimiento del verano de tal manera que podamos entrar mejor a esta nueva estación del año.

La simple conciencia de esta realidad puede ayudar a animarnos cuando nos sentimos desvanecer. Entrar al verano sabiendo que se sentirá muy diferente a la cuaresma, por ejemplo, nos ayudará a prepararnos mejor para esto. Es normal que nuestra vida

tener la confianza en el hecho de que Dios siempre está caminando con nosotros, sin importar nada. La clave es ser intencional en ver cómo Dios está conmigo, porque puedo estar seguro que Él lo está. En medio de un viaje o un evento deportivo o tiempo libre, Dios sigue teniendo el deseo de atraernos más cerca de él, de amarnos más profundamente y más completamente.

Una manera práctica para ayudarnos

10 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

a protegernos del “desvanecimiento del verano” es un sencillo chequeo interior cada semana o incluso cada día. Tomar tiempo para preguntarme: “¿Cómo estoy con el Señor?” pude ayudarnos a reconocer más fácilmente el desvanecimiento y tomar la acción apropiada para mantenernos en el camino. En cuanto más pronto lo reconocemos, será más fácil reenfocarnos y recentrarnos. Es como una bola de nieve rodando hacia abajo al lado de la montaña. Arriba, podemos detenerla fácilmente con un dedo. Pero si esperamos que llegue hasta abajo, ésta crece y crece y se convierte el algo difícil de detener. De la misma manera, en cuanto más pronto reconocemos nuestro desvanecimiento interior, más fácil será para nosotros reenfocarnos y ver cómo Dios nos está invitando a buscarlo más plenamente. Cuando tengo un día difícil, y no examino qué está pasando interiormente, es fácil sentirme más y más desanimado y fatigado porque muchas veces no me doy cuenta de lo que está pasando mientras desvanezco. Pero cuando tengo un día difícil y tomo el tiempo para “checarme” interiormente, en lugar de desanimarme y tener la tentación de abandonar mis prácticas espirituales, puedo reconocer la tentación que está, ver que el amor de Dios por mí sigue presente, y volverme a comprometer a buscarlo con un fervor renovado para mañana.

Dios tiene grandes deseos por cada uno de nosotros mientras entramos en los meses de verano. No debería ser un tiempo para desvanecer, sino puede ser un tiempo de gran renovación y crecimiento espiritual. Sea lo que sea que el verano nos traiga con un ritmo más lento o más rápido, los invito a renovar nuestro compromiso a estar con el Señor en medio de eso. Que Dios los bendiga y cuídense mientras entramos junto en esta estación. BC

Binh luan bang loi

“Sống đạo mùa hè” có thể giúp ta lướt thắng “nhạt phai mùa hè” trong cuộc sống ví dụ điển hình là nó đã giúp ta chuẩn bị tốt. Một cái gì đó bình thường khi lòng đạo của mình thay đổi theo mùa, cũng như cuộc sống cũng vậy thôi. Đạo đức của một thiếu niên rất khác với đạo đức của một người mới làm mẹ, nó cũng khác biệt với một người vừa nghỉ hưu. Rất bình thường nếu lòng đạo của mình khác biệt khi

“

Thiên Chúa có ước vọng lớn cho mỗi người khi ta bước vào các tháng hè. Sẽ không có chuyện có thời gian hao mòn, nhưng là thời gian làm mới lại toàn diện và thăng tiến trên tu đức.

“

Đối với nhiều người, mùa hè mang đến nhiều nhịp bước khác nhau. Với một số người, hè là thời gian nghỉ ngơi và bồi dưỡng bởi vì công việc và học đường chậm lại. Chúng ta có cơ hội đi du lịch cùng gia đình hay bạn bè và thưởng ngoạn với người thân. Với những người khác, hè có phần bận rộn hơn – vì con cái tụ họp tại nhà, chương trình thể thao và các trại hè. Cuối hè, anh chị em có lẽ sẵn sàng cho mùa hè đi vào quá khứ!!

Nhưng mặc cho hướng nào mình đi, hè luôn mang lại cái gì mới và cá biệt. Nhịp sống của cả năm cũng thay đổi, và chúng ta chỉnh sửa để thích nghi với hướng đi mới.

Không cần biết mình thay đổi bao nhiêu lần qua trạng thái này, thời gian chuyển tiếp thông thường mang lại nhiều thử thách, cách riêng về sống đạo. Nhịp bước mới nhiều khi không giúp gì cho chúng ta chăm chỉ cầu nguyện và tham dự thánh Lễ mà chúng ta đã có thói quen trong năm. Đặc biệt là thói quen và quyết tâm trong Mùa Chay, rất nhiều người có thể bị cám dỗ “thả lỏng” sống đạo mà chúng ta đã thực hành trong Mùa Chay. Bởi vậy mới nói “nhạt phai mùa hè” là cái gì đó làm ảnh hưởng đến nhiều người và làm mất hứng, đặc biệt sau khi mình đã cảm nhận được Mùa Chay Thánh tuyệt vời.

“Sống đạo hè” có thể giúp chúng ta chống lại nhạt phai mùa hè để rồi chúng ta bước tốt vào mùa mới trong năm.

Một cách làm đơn giản giúp chúng ta tìm lại cảm hứng cho bất cứ khi nào mình nhận thấy nhàm chán. Khi bước vào mùa hè nên ghi nhớ cảm giác sẽ khác biệt với Mùa Chay, một

chúng ta bước qua nhiều mùa trong đời, kể cả đó là các mùa trong năm.

Mình có thể̀ tự tin rằng sự thật Thiên Chúa luôn luôn đồng hành cùng ta, không cần biết trong tình huống nào.

Chìa khoá căn bản là trong tâm luôn nhìn thấy Chúa ở với mình cách nào, vì tôi tâm đắc rằng Ngài luôn hiện diện. Trong giữa chuyến du hành, thể

thao hay nghỉ ngơi, Thiên Chúa vẫn muốn lôi kéo chúng ta đến gần Ngài, để yêu thương sâu hơn và trọn vẹn hơn.

Một cách thực tiễn giúp ta chống lại nhạt phai mùa hè rất đơn giản là xét mình mỗi tuần hay ngay cả mỗi ngày. Dùng thời gian tự kiểm điểm “Tôi đối Chúa như thế nào?” có thể giúp chúng ta nhận ra cái hao mòn nhanh hơn và ứng xử để giúp ta khỏi trật đường. Và càng sớm nhận ra nó thì càng dễ tái tập trung và nhận ra Chúa đang mời gọi ta tìm kiếm Ngài như thế nào. Khi mình gặp một ngày khó khăn, và mình không tự xét mình đang gặp tâm trạng gì, nó rất dễ làm cho mình càng cảm thấy bị nhụt trí và mệt mỏi vì những lần không xét mình đó, mình không nhận ra căn nguyên rồi bị phai đi. Nhưng khi mình gặp một ngày không ổn và dùng thời gian tự xét mình, hơn là bị chia trí rồi bị cám dỗ từ bỏ việc đạo đức, mình có thể nhận ra sự cám dỗ đó là gì, nhận ra tình Chúa dành cho mình vẫn hiện hữu, và lại quyết tâm tìm kiếm Ngài với sự đổi mới cho ngày mai.

Thiên Chúa có ước vọng lớn cho mỗi người khi ta bước vào các tháng hè. Sẽ không có chuyện có thời gian hao mòn, nhưng là thời gian làm mới lại toàn diện và thăng tiến trên tu đức. Mặc cho mùa hè mang đến những bước đi chậm hay nhanh, tôi kêu gọi anh chị em tất cả đổi mới sự quyết tâm sống bên cạnh Chúa giữa những bước đi. Xin Chúa chúc lành và bao bọc anh chị em, cùng nhau bước vào hè. BC

June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 11

Comment

Pope Francis at the general audience: Christian meditation ‘is not a withdrawal into ourselves’ The Pope Speaks

CNA Staff (CNA) Pope Francis said recently that Christian meditation is a way of encountering Jesus and not “a withdrawal into ourselves.”

Speaking at his general audience, the pope reflected on what distinguishes Christian meditation from other meditative practices popular in the Western world.

He said: “For us Christians, meditating is a way of coming into contact with Jesus. And in this way, only in this way, we discover ourselves.”

“And this is not a withdrawal into ourselves, no, no: It means going to Jesus, and from Jesus, discovering ourselves, healed, risen, strong by the grace of Jesus. And encountering Jesus, the savior of all, myself included. And this, thanks to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.”

The pope gave his address, dedicated to meditative prayer, in the library of the Apostolic Palace due to coronavirus restrictions.

The speech was the 31st reflection in his cycle of catechesis on prayer, which he launched in May and resumed in October following nine addresses on healing the world after the pandemic.

In his address, Pope Francis noted the growth in popularity of meditation in the West.

He said: “The practice of meditation has received a great deal of attention in recent years. It is not only Christians who talk about it: The practice of meditation exists in almost all the

world’s religions. But it is also a widespread activity among people who do not have a religious view of life.”

“We all need to meditate, to reflect, to discover ourselves, it is a human dynamic. Especially in the voracious Western world, people seek meditation because it represents a high barrier against the daily stress and emptiness that is everywhere.”

“Here, then, is the image of young people and adults sitting in meditation, in silence, with eyes half-closed ... But what do these people do, we might ask?

They meditate. It is a phenomenon to be looked on favorably: In fact, we are not made to run all the time, we have an inner life that cannot always be neglected. Meditating is therefore a need for everyone. Meditating, so to say, is like stopping and taking a breath in life. To stop and be still.”

The pope then considered what made Christian meditation different from other practices.

He said: “Meditating is a necessary human dimension, but meditating in the Christian context – we Christians – goes further: It is a dimension that must not be eradicated.”

“The great door through which the prayer of a baptized person passes – let us remind ourselves once again – is Jesus Christ. For the Christian, meditation enters through the door of Jesus Christ. The practice of meditation also follows this path.”

He continued: “And the Christian, when he or she prays, does not aspire to full self-transparency, does not seek the deepest center of the ego. This is legitimate, but the Christian seeks something else. The prayer of the Christian is first of all an encounter with the Other, with a capital ‘O’: The transcendent encounter with God.” “If an experience of prayer gives us inner peace, or self-mastery, or clarity about the path to take, these results

12 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

are, one might say, consequences of the grace of Christian prayer, which is the encounter with Jesus. That is, meditating means going – guided by a phrase from the Scripture, from a word – to the encounter with Jesus within us.”

The pope explained that within the Christian tradition the word “meditation” has been used to refer to many different practices over the past two millennia.

“Nevertheless,” he said, “some common lines can be traced, and in this we are helped again by the Catechism, which says ... ‘There are as many and varied methods of meditation as there are spiritual masters. But a method is only a guide; the important thing is to advance, with the Holy Spirit, along the one way of prayer: Christ Jesus.’”

“And here it indicates a traveling companion, one who guides: The Holy Spirit. Christian meditation is not possible without the Holy Spirit. It is he who guides us to the encounter with Jesus. Jesus said to us, ‘I will send you the Holy Spirit. He will teach you and will explain to you. He will teach you and explain to you.’ And in meditation too, he is the guide for going forward in our encounter with Jesus Christ.”

The pope urged Catholics not to become overly attached to any one form of meditative prayer, saying that “the method is a road, not a goal.”

“The methods of meditation are paths to travel to arrive at the encounter with Jesus, but if you stop on the road, and just look at the path, you will never find Jesus,” he said.

“You will make a ‘god’ out of the path.

The ‘god’ is not waiting for you there, it is Jesus who awaits you. And the path is there to take you to Jesus.” BC

Comment

Questions of Faith Father Wilmer Todd

Being on the right side of history Our society is still very divided on racial issues. I grew up in a white culture where all the pictures of Jesus, Mary and the saints were white. These images have formed my religious and social outlook.

How can I be part of the healing process that our country so badly needs?

Recently, I was preaching at Our Lady of the Isle Church in Grand Isle about the gift of peace that Jesus wants to give each of us. When Jesus said, “Peace be with you,” it was not just a casual greeting like, “How are you doing?” He was bestowing his gift of peace on his followers.

Jesus offers us the same gift of peace. However, we will never receive this great gift if we have hate in our hearts. Recently, I heard someone say on television, “When you hate someone, the only person affected is the hater.”

A group of people on retreat joined us for Mass; they were all wearing yellow shirts. To make a point I said, “If I hate all people who wear yellow shirts, the hate is not in the yellow shirt people, the hate is in my heart, eating away at me.”

Later it made me think – this silly example is how prejudice works.

Someone thinks with a negative bias: “I hate all people whose skin is darker than mine . . . who belong to another religious group . . . who belong to another political party . . . whose eyes are more slanted than mine . . . who have a different sexual orientation . . . who belong to a different social class, etc.

Again, “Hate is in the hater,” but too often we see the hater carrying out their hatred by acts of violence against innocent persons. If we want to experience the peace that Jesus wants to give to each of his followers, then we must rid ourselves of all hate and prejudices toward anyone.

Did you ever hear the phrase, “If English were good enough for Jesus, it’s good enough for us?” We are not sure who said this but this quote is often used to put down politicians for being ignorant of history and religion.

However, knowing some religious history is important for us.

First, Jesus, Mary and Joseph and all the apostles were Jewish. They all belonged to a mid-Eastern group known as Semitic people. Their skins were darker than the average EuroAmerican. Jewish author Micha Danzig wrote in his Forward: “Jews are not ‘white.’ We are a tribal people from the Levant. Many of our people were forcibly exiled out of and into other nations, including in Europe, where we were taken in chains and often subjected to brutal and oppressive institutional racism based on our ethnicity, tribal affiliation, culture and faith.”

Practically all the pictures we see of Jesus and his contemporaries look like us with beards and long apparel.

Most medieval religious paintings we have were painted by artists who never visited the Holy Land. We have come to identify with Jesus as being Caucasian.

He was not!

In the Acts of the Apostles, the Lord instructs Philip to go south to the

road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza. He went and found “an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of the Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, in charge of her entire treasury. He had come to Jerusalem to worship and was returning home; seated in his chariot, he was reading the prophet Isaiah. Then the Spirit said to Philip, ‘Go over to this chariot and join it’” (Acts 8:26-29).

Philip explains the Scripture and later baptizes him. Now this man is an African, black. Our church was founded on “People of Color.” It was only later on that Cornelius, a centurion with the Italian Cohort, was brought into the church by Peter after some hesitation.

Peter had a special vision where God was showing him that non-Jewish people should become part of the church.

When our Lord or our Lady appears to people, their appearances are identified with that particular nationality or race.

Look at Our Lady of Guadalupe. Our Lady appeared to Juan Diego as native Mexican with all the local dress and features. When the heavenly visitors appear to Caucasians, they look like white people. God is God for all people no matter who we are.

When Americans are examining our racial understandings and prejudices, it is good to know our history, but being on the right side of history is even better. We cannot receive Jesus’ gift of peace if we are still holding on to racial hatred. Together let us work on our biases. BC

Readers are encouraged to send their questions to our local Bayou Catholic columnists by email to bayoucatholic@htdiocese.org.

June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 13

Reflections

St. Joseph: Dealing with the unexpected Readings Between the Lines Father Glenn LeCompte

By now you probably have heard that the universal church is celebrating a Year of St. Joseph. Pope Francis declared this observance on the 150th anniversary of the promulgation of a decree on Dec. 8, 1870, by Pope Pius IX proclaiming St. Joseph patron of the universal church. You may have seen articles in the Bayou Catholic regarding the Year of St. Joseph, and may even have received prayer cards reflecting this observance. In my June and July articles, I intend to review briefly the presentation of St. Joseph in the New Testament.

Within the Gospels, Joseph appears most frequently in Matthew’s and Luke’s infancy narratives, the first two chapters of both of those Gospels.

Since Mark has no infancy narrative, it may not be surprising that Joseph is absent in that Gospel. John mentions Joseph twice (1:45; 6:42) in his Gospel, and both times people identify Jesus as his son.

Joseph plays an important role in Matthew’s first chapter. Significantly, Matthew depicts Jesus as “Son of David” and “Son of Abraham” (1:1).

Matthew connects Jesus to these two prominent figures of Israelite history by means of a genealogy. A biblical genealogy is a literary device which connects the final figure in it to other important figures preceding it. In addition, biblical genealogies demonstrate the continuity of God’s accomplishment of his plans through human agents over time.

Why is Matthew intent on associating Jesus with Abraham and David?

Abraham is the great patriarch of the Israelite people, and the figure through

whom God promised to bring about a people upon whom God would bestow divine favor. In addition, God would confer blessing upon all peoples of the earth through Abraham’s descendants (Genesis 12:3). As a son of Mary, who is a Jew, Jesus is a descendant of Abraham. This means that Jesus can be the chosen instrument through whom God fulfills the promises made through Abraham.

Establishing descent from David, however, is another matter. David is depicted in the Old Testament as the ideal king of Israel. After David’s last reigning descendant, Zedekiah, is deposed by the Babylonians, the Jewish people long for the advent of a new king who would embody the qualities of David (see e.g. Ezekiel 34:23). As I mentioned above, Matthew associates Jesus with Abraham and David by means of the literary device of a genealogy. Within the genealogy there are certain “holy irregularities,” such as the birth of Solomon to David and Bathsheba, with whom David committed adultery and whose husband’s murder David arranged.

In spite of David’s misgivings, God still fulfills his plans. Jesus’ insertion into David’s line is accomplished by another “holy irregularity.” He is not depicted in the genealogy as descended from Joseph, who is descended from David. But by Jewish Law, Joseph’s

14 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

claiming Mary’s son as his legal child would incorporate him into Joseph’s lineage, and therefore into that of David and Abraham as well. Matthew thus presents Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises to bless all people through Abraham’s descendants and to bring forth a Messianic heir to David’s throne. God brings the divine promises about by means of a divine intervention. Joseph plays a critical role in God’s plan by adopting Jesus.

The irregularity by which Jesus enters into the line of Abraham and David is reflected in Joseph’s situation regarding the completion of his marriage contract with Mary. Joseph learns of Mary’s pregnancy during the period of their betrothal, and prior to the divine revelation that comes to him later, assumes that another man is her child’s father. In such a situation he may invoke Deuteronomy 22:2324, which allows for the betrothal to be ended and Mary could be executed by stoning. However, Joseph seems to prefer a milder divorce law whereby a man who marries a woman and becomes displeased with her due to some indecency found in her may simply write a bill of divorce and dismiss her from his house (Deuteronomy 24:1).

Because he does not wish to subject Mary to the harsher law, he is deemed “just.” In John 8:1-11, Jesus deals with a woman caught in the act of

a

Reflections

adultery by making the crowd that would stone her aware that their own sinfulness precludes their right to carry out her execution.

Just when Joseph is about to dissolve the betrothal between him and Mary, God intervenes. The medium of divine revelation is a dream, a medium sometimes depicted in the Old Testament as the means by which God imparts a divine communication (e.g.

Genesis 20:3, 6; Judges 7:13, 15; 1 Kings 3:5, 15). Perhaps the most significant connection Joseph, the adoptive father of Jesus, has with an Old Testament dreamer is with his namesake, Joseph, the son of Jacob, in Genesis, chapters 37-50. Joseph the patriarch is able to interpret the meaning of dreams and their practical implications. Sometimes these interpretations cause him trouble (Genesis 37:5-11), at other times they are a source of great fortune for him (Genesis 41:1-40).

Although Mary’s pregnancy has

interjected an unexpected twist into the intervening time between their betrothal and the solemnizing of their marriage contract, Joseph trusts the divine revelation in the dream to proceed with completing the marriage contract. Therefore, Joseph foregoes the invocation of either of the divorce laws mentioned above.

So far, what can we say of Joseph as he is depicted in Matthew 1:125. Matthew portrays Joseph as a model of Jewish piety, a man who is respectful of the Law and is committed to justice. Although he finds himself in a difficult and confusing situation, he trusts God’s providence and is willing to change his human plans in order that he may obediently carry out God’s plan. The focus of Matthew, chapter 1, is on the identity of Jesus as the one through whom God intends to bring to fruition the promises made to Abraham and the advent of the Messianic heir to David’s throne. God

intends that Jesus be “God-with-us,” “Emmanuel.” By adopting Jesus and completing his marriage contract with Mary, Joseph plays an important role in the fulfillment of God’s plan. And in some way or another, God calls each of us to accept a role in the unfolding of his continuous plan in our own time. BC

Reflection Questions v How can Joseph’s way of dealing with the unexpected twists and turns in his life serve as a model for similar experiences in yours? v How does Joseph fulfill his role as an earthly father for Jesus? How might he be a role model for fathers? v What role have you discerned God is calling you to play in his plan of salvation?

YOU DO THE LIVING, we do the rest!

Assisted Living Community SAFETY & SECURITY CAREFREE LIVING FINANCIAL FREEDOM COMPANIONSHIP FREE TRANSPORTATION DAILY MASS

MOVE in

NOW!

Call TODAY to schedule a tour!

985-446-9050 1201 Cardinal Drive Thibodaux, LA 70301 www.stjosephmanor.org natalieb@stjosephmanor.org

June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 15

June Scripture Readings and a listing of Feast days and saints

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

1

2

3

4

5

Memorial of Saint Justin, martyr Tobit 2:9-14 Mark 12:13-17

6 Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ Exodus 24:3-8 Hebrews 9:11-15 Mark 14:12-16, 22-26

13 Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time Ezekiel 17:22-24 2 Corinthians 5:610 Mark 4:26-34

7

Weekday Weekday 2 Corinthians 1:1-7 2 Corinthians 1:18Matthew 5:1-12 22 Matthew 5:13-16

14 Weekday 2 Corinthians 6:110 Matthew 5:38-42

20

21

Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time Job 38:1, 8-11 2 Corinthians 5:1417 Mark 4:35-41

Memorial of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, religious Genesis 12:1-9 Matthew 7:1-5

27

28

Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24 2 Corinthians 8:7, 9, 13-15 Mark 5:21-43

8

Memorial of Saint Irenaeus, bishop and martyr Genesis 18:16-33 Matthew 8:18-22

15

Weekday Tobit 3:1-11a, 1617a Mark 12:18-27

9 Weekday 2 Corinthians 3:411 Matthew 5:17-19

16

Weekday Weekday 2 Corinthians 8:1-9 2 Corinthians 9:6Matthew 5:43-48 11 Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

22

23

Weekday Weekday Genesis 13:2, 5-18 Genesis 15:1-12, Matthew 7:6, 12-14 17-18 Matthew 7:15-20

29 Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, apostles Acts 3:1-10 Galatians 1:11-20 John 21:15-19

16 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

30 Weekday Genesis 21:5, 8-20a Matthew 8:28-34

Memorial of Saint Charles Lwanga and companions, martyrs Tobit 6:10-11; 7:1bcde, 9-17; 8:4-9a Mark 12:28-34 10 Weekday 2 Corinthians 3:15—4:1, 3-6 Matthew 5:20-26

17 Weekday 2 Corinthians 11:111 Matthew 6:7-15

24 Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist Jeremiah 1:4-10 1 Peter 1:8-12 Luke 1:5-17

Weekday Tobit 11:5-17 Mark 12:35-37

Memorial of Saint Boniface, bishop and martyr Tobit 12:1, 5-15, 20 Mark 12:38-44

11

12

Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Hosea 11:1, 3-4, 8c-9 Ephesians 3:8-12, 14-19 John 19:31-37

Memorial of the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary 2 Corinthians 5:1421 Luke 2:41-51

18

19

Weekday 2 Corinthians 11:18, 21-30 Matthew 6:19-23

25

Weekday 2 Corinthians 12:110 Matthew 6:24-34

26

Weekday Weekday Genesis 17:1, 9-10, Genesis 18:1-15 15-22 Matthew 8:5-17 Matthew 8:1-4

June

Holy Father’s prayer intentions

Evangelization

Life is great ~

Get busy living.

The beauty of marriage. Let us pray for young people who are preparing for marriage with the suppport of a Christian community: May they grow in love, with generosity, faithfulness and patience.

See www.apostleshipofprayer.org

Independent Living Community

1201 Cardinal Drive ~ Thibodaux, LA 70301 (985) 446-9050 ~ www.stjosephmanor.org

For More Information Contact: Natalie Barbera natalieb@stjosephmanor.org

LOCALLY OWNED SINCE 1974 June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 17

Special

‘Fratelli tutti’

Pope Francis issues social encyclical calling people to care for one another as brothers and sisters

Guest Columnist Father Rusty Bruce

A major theme that our current pope has emphasized throughout his pontificate is the call to encounter.

That is, looking beyond ourselves to the needs of others. This idea proposed

by Pope Francis is nothing novel, as our Lord does this repeatedly in sacred Scripture. However, what Pope Francis does is simply remind the pilgrim church that what our Lord does, we, as his disciples, are also called to do.

Encounter presupposes two things— the willingness to enter into genuine dialogue and friendship—the two things which are at the heart of this chapter.

The Holy Father opens the sixth chapter of his encyclical, Fratelli tutti, entitled “Dialogue and Friendship in Society” by distinguishing what true dialogue is from what it is not. Pope Francis begins by stating that dialogue is the action of “Approaching, speaking, listening, looking at, coming to know and understand one another,” and trying “to find common ground” with others. He goes on to say that much of the progress in our world today is owed to the patient dialogue of individuals

who are often not given credit in our news outlets (198).

The culture in which we live is ever changing, and because of this the Holy Father argues that we too must approach the reality in which we live with new and innovative ways to engage one another. Withdrawing from conflict, seeking refuge, or reacting violently to conflict are not the answers, as he points out. Instead, when faced with conflicts, the solution that Pope Francis puts forth is to enter into authentic dialogue. When speaking about dialogue the pontiff says that dialogue is not simply “parallel monologues” where people speak at each other in antagonistic tones. Nor is dialogue “the feverish exchange of opinions on social networks, frequently based on media information that is not always reliable” (200).

Pope Francis explains that the majority of our media platforms today can be obstacles to dialogue rather than bridges to unity. This is due to the fact that most encourage individuals to retract deeper into their own views, interests and ideas by surrounding themselves with individuals who are like-minded. The pope insinuates that this is a dangerous practice that fuels the erroneous mentality that those who do not share the same views are flatout wrong and therefore, have nothing to offer to the discussion. He laments that rather than connecting the world, the media has been used as a weapon to divide people through manipulation by government, economic, political,

18 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

and even religious organizations, as well as other spheres that share these forms of communication (201). While this might be the reality of some media platforms, the Holy Father encourages us that this does not and should not be the case. The pope exhorts that “the heroes of the future will be those who can break with this unhealthy mindset and determine respectfully to promote truthfulness, aside from personal interest.” He follows this exhortation by hoping that, “such heroes are quietly emerging, even now, in the midst of our society” (202).

The pontiff sees that the authentic social dialogue that our society desperately needs is one that, “involves the ability to respect the other’s point of view and to admit that it may include legitimate convictions and concerns.” In order to achieve a more fruitful debate, he says that others should be able to freely articulate their positions as a means to contribute to the conversation given what they bring to the table by virtue of their own identity and experiences. Candidly, the pope comments that when we are open to genuine dialogue, we improve in our capacity to better understand the position of the other side, even if it is a stance we cannot accept as our own.

Genuine dialogue makes it possible to be frank and open while trying to find a common ground. The Holy Father invites those who are willing to enter into genuine dialogue to “work and struggle together” (203).

The call to enter into the

a

Special

Chapter Six difficulty and hard work that it takes for individuals to achieve genuine dialogue shows that the pontiff is not suggesting relativism as a solution.

Rather, he points out that the error of relativism, often under the pretense of tolerance, ultimately leaves the decision making of what is of moral value to those who wield greater power rather than those who hold to “objective truths and sound principles’’ (206). The pope declares that if our society is to continue then we must “respect the truth of our human dignity and submit to that truth,” rather than give in to the current “reduction of ethics and politics to physics,” where the concept of good and evil has been replaced with the

concept of “benefits and burdens” (207, 210). Pope Francis argues that genuine dialogue is the surest way in which our pluralistic society can realize what should always be held to be true and respected (211).

The frequent plea throughout the pontificate of Pope Francis has been for growth in our culture where the “art of encounter” is able to overcome differences and divisions. He uses the image of a polyhedron that has many facets representing the differences that exist between people. Polyhedrons form one unit that is greater as a whole than when it is divided. Using this image, the pope challenges us to see how differences can be a strength when we come together to coexist, complement, enrich and illuminate each other (215).

The Holy Father goes on to define culture as “something deeply embedded within a people.” He states that in order for the “art of encounter” to become part of our culture, it must first become a cherished conviction within each one of us, thus making it a part of this new culture that the pope is advocating (216). A lasting benefit to this new culture embedded within the “art of encounter” would be a peace (217) that is established by recounting the rights of others.

In the final section of this chapter, the Holy Father urges us to recover the quality of kindness that has been lost in our consumerist and individualistic

society. He encourages us to fight against the temptation to see our brothers and sisters as obstacles to our happiness (222). Rather, we are called to see them as having a right to happiness as well. The encyclical states that this reality can be achieved when we begin to take the focus off ourselves. We do this by showing interest in others through simple gestures such as greetings, smiles or words of encouragement (224). The pontiff mentions St. Paul and his description of kindness as being a fruit of the Holy Spirit. Kindness brings forth words of “comfort, strength, consolation and encouragement” as opposed to words that tear people down, dishearten or upset individuals (223). This particular fruit of the Holy Spirit is what the pope suggests can free us from the cruelty that plagues human relationships. The Holy Father believes that the virtue of kindness, once integrated into our culture, will have the power to affect the way things are discussed and will change lives and relationships for the better. In closing, he states that kindness brings forth the pursuit for consensus (224) which ultimately brings about a deeper friendship and respect for others.

(Father Rusty Bruce currently serves as associate pastor of St. Hilary of Poitiers Church parish in Mathews and the Community of St. Anthony in Gheens.) BC

Maison Bienvenue

A SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY IN THIBODAUX, LA

Floor Plans

Studio (570 sq. ft.)

1 Bedroom (719 sq. ft.)

2 Bedroom

(953 sq. ft.)

Call us about our pricing.

Please contact Mironda Parker, Director of Business Development, at 225-323-5454 or email at MParker@nexion-health.com.

152 Percy Brown Road | Thibodaux, LA 70301 T 985-279-0101 eFax 985-387-8810 Affiliated with Nexion Health. A place to call home.

June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 19

Feature

The Annual Bishop’s Appeal helps meet obligations to retired priests Story by Janet Marcel ~ Photo by Tyler Neil Once a year, Bishop Shelton J. Fabre makes a direct plea to the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux to support certain diocesan ministries through their prayers and financial contributions to the Annual Bishop’s Appeal (ABA).

“With regard to our retired priests, I reflect on the Scripture passage, ‘ … The laborer is worthy of his wages’ (1 Timothy 5:18) and even when the laborer retires he is still worth his wage,” says Bishop Fabre. “The Appeal helps us meet our obligations to our retired priests, which basically fall into two categories – retirement income for them and responsibility for their healthcare needs and health insurance.”

Many of our retired priests still continue to minister to 20 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

the faithful by assisting active pastors with celebrating Masses, funerals and the sacraments, as well as in other ways.

Father Wilmer L. Todd was ordained to the priesthood Dec. 21, 1963, at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans and retired from active ministry in June 2007 after almost 44 years of service to the people in Southeast Louisiana.

He has been called to re-enter active ministry more than once to replace pastors who have had to leave for extended periods of time for various reasons.

Father Todd says one of the things he loves most about the priesthood is the liturgy and celebrating Mass with people, especially those who appreciate liturgy. In addition to a master of divinity degree from Notre Dame

a

Feature

Seminary, Father Todd has a master of education degree in psychology and guidance from Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, and is a certified teacher. “I have a background in psychology and I also enjoy being around people, dealing with them through confession and on a more personal level through counseling,” says the priest.

The New Orleans native says one of the reasons he decided to become a part of the newly formed Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in 1977 rather than stay in the Archdiocese of New Orleans, was that he liked the fatherly image of (the late) Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux, who served as Houma-Thibodaux’s first bishop. “I always looked at the archdiocese as so big and more impersonal, and I felt like

people who ‘go for the rocking chair’ are gone much sooner than those who stay active. I have always loved meeting people, conversing with them and celebrating Mass.

And in retirement, I can still do that … but when the air conditioner breaks, it’s not my problem!”

Shortly after he retired, Father Todd joined St. Catherine Hospice Group in Laplace but after a few years the drive back and forth became too much. He then joined Journey Hospice of Houma, which he is still involved with. As chaplain for Journey Hospice, Father Todd does public relations type activities such as singing at nursing homes, which he enjoys and hopes to be able to get back to after the restrictions regarding the COVID-19 pandemic end. He also

I could make a bigger impact or more of a difference here.

Another reason is that I had only served in the area that was to become the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.”

Father Todd’s first pastoral experience was as a deacon in 1963 at St. Francis de Sales Church parish in Houma.

His first assignment after he was ordained was as associate pastor at St. Joseph Church parish in Chauvin. When this diocese was established in 1977, he was serving as pastor of St. Thomas Aquinas on the Nicholls State University campus in Thibodaux. He went on to serve as pastor of Holy Cross in Morgan City, St. Bernadette in Houma, and St. Genevieve and St. Luke the Evangelist in Thibodaux.

Father Todd says this about why he has remained so active even though he is “officially” retired. “I believe staying active helps you to live longer. In my experience

takes part in a self-help television show that airs on HTV in Houma.

The Annual Bishop’s Appeal sustains a lot of welldeserving causes, says Father Todd, such as retired priests, seminarians and Catholic education, which are all very important to the church. He has always believed in the principle of biblical stewardship where you are called to give back the first 10 percent of your earnings. His philosophy is to give five percent to your church parish; one percent to your diocese and four percent to other worthy charities.

“The causes funded by the Annual Bishop’s Appeal are all very needed by the diocese,” says Father Todd, who urges everyone to give whatever they can to support these essential ministries in our diocese. BC June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 21

Heavenly Recipes

Gerrie Byrne

Gerrie Cooks a:

HEALTHY MEAL Story and Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

This month’s heavenly recipe, veggie enchiladas, is a meal that is healthy without sacrificing great taste. The recipe comes from Morgan City native and Berwick resident Gerrie Byrne, diocesan curriculum specialist. Gerrie and her husband Gerard have been married for 28 years. The Byrne’s have two children, Caroline, 26 and Blake who is 22. Gerrie was formally an assistant principal at Central Catholic High School, and a curriculum specialist and elementary teacher at Holy Cross Elementary School for 14 years.

Gerrie enjoys cooking. “I learned to cook from my mother and grandmother; mostly my grandmother. I feel that cooking brings families together. Both of my children enjoy cooking, especially healthy foods.”

Being a working mom meant planning meals on weekends for the family. “Sundays were menu planning days and grocery shopping days. I would try to cook simple meals. I didn’t want to spend tons of time in the kitchen during the week.”

Gerrie received a degree in speech, language and hearing from Nicholls State University and her masters online from Grand Canyon University. “I think God sent me to the field of education.

I love curriculum. I love working with teachers and helping children. I do and don’t miss the classroom. I miss the students. I like the task that is involved with this position. I enjoy researching topics to help teachers.”

Gerrie enjoys working at the Pastoral Center. “The people have been so pleasant here. I appreciate the opportunity to attend Mass in the morning. I also like the fact that I can go to the chapel here and pray for 10 minutes or so if I feel the need to. The environment of God first is great.” BC 22 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

Easy Veggie Enchiladas INGREDIENTS: 1 orange bell pepper, sliced 1 red pepper, sliced 1 zucchini, cut in half lengthwise then sliced 1 red onion, sliced 1 jalapeno, sliced 1/4 cup cilantro 1 tbsp. olive oil 1 can black beans 1 can enchilada sauce 1 tsp. oregano 1 tsp. cumin 1 tbsp. taco seasoning.

1 cup Spanish (yellow) rice, cooked 1 cup Mexican cheese blend, shredded 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved 1 avocado, sliced 1/4 cup diced onion 1/4 fresh cilantro leaves 1/2 cup sour cream 8 flour tortillas Salt, pepper, garlic to taste

DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine the first seven ingredients and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Spread the vegetables out in a sheet pan and roast in the oven for 25 minutes. While the vegetables are roasting, cook the rice according to package directions.

Drain and rinse the black beans. Mix the black beans with oregano, cumin, taco seasoning and 1/2 can of enchilada sauce in a saucepan. Cook on medium heat for three minutes or until heated through. Place two tablespoons of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Add a scoop of vegetable mixture into the center of each tortilla, top with a spoon of black beans, a spoon of rice, and roll up tightly. Place rolled up tortillas side by side in the baking dish, then top with remaining enchilada sauce and cheeses. Bake until cheese is bubbly, about 15 minutes. Top the enchilada with grape tomatoes, an avocado slice, onions and cilantro.

You and your baby are in the best hands

Katherine Ayo-Rayburn, MD OB/GYN

Gregory Morris, MD OB/GYN

Natasha Goss, MD OB/GYN

Kellin Reynolds, MD OB/GYN

Ochsner offers OB services in Raceland, Cut Off and Luling.

Gregory Morris, Elena Mann, MD MD Natasha Goss, Kellin Reynolds, Gregory Morris, MDMD MD Elena Mann, MD Natasha Goss, MDMD Kellin Reynolds, MDMD Gregory Morris, Charles Faucheux, Elena Mann, MD Natasha Goss, MD Being pregnant is one of the most exciting times(OB/GYN) of(OB/GYN) your life and (OB/GYN) (OB/GYN) (OB/GYN) (OB/GYN) (OB/GYN) (OB/GYN) (GYN)

Kellin Reynolds, MD

we(OB/GYN) understand how important it is to find the right OB/GYN. At Ochsner, our providers will make you feel at ease throughout all the stages of your pregnancy and answer any of your questions.

Locations: Locations: Locations: Our Family Birthing Center, which is now baby-friendly designated, includes private Ochsner Women’sHealth Health Ochsner Ochsner Women’s Health birthing rooms, free prenatal classes, skin-to-skin andWomen’s breastfeeding support.

(OB/GYN)

(OB/GYN)

(OB/GYN)

Ochsner Women’s Health Center – Raceland 104 Acadia Park Drive Raceland, LA 70394 985-537-3211

Center– –Raceland Raceland Center Center – Raceland 104Acadia AcadiaPark ParkDrive Drive 104 Acadia Park Drive 104 Raceland,LALA70394 70394 Raceland, LA 70394 Raceland, 985.537.3211 985.537.3211 985.537.3211

Ochsner Specialty Health St. Charles Parish Hospital OchsnerSpecialty SpecialtyHealth Health Ochsner Specialty Health Center – Cut Off 1057Ochsner Paul Maillard Rd. Center– –Cut CutOff Off Center Center – Cut Off 102 West 112th102 Street th th StreetLuling, LA 70070 102 West112 112 Street 102 West 112th Street West Cut Off, LA 70345 985-785-6242 Cut Off, LA 70345 Cut Off, LA 70345 Cut Off, LA 70345 985.632.1070 985.632.1070 985-632-1070 985.632.1070

youcan canschedule schedule yournext next With you your th IT’SThrough you canschedule schedule your next All ONLINE: With MyOchsner, our online portal, you can ommunicate with your OB at anytime. mmunicate OB at anytime. appointment and communicate with your OB with at anytime. your with next your appointment and communicate your OB g. Visit my.ochsner.org. at any time. Visit my.ochsner.org.

D.indd 1

8/19/15 6:40 PM

Youth

in action

Wyatt Plaisance School: Lockport Middle School Grade: Sixth Church parish: Holy Savior, Lockport Describe your family unit: Sam, father; Melissa, mother; Tarin, sister; Colin, brother; and Bear, my dog Favorite Hobby: Playing outside/playing with my dog, playing football Favorite Movie: The old Star Wars Favorite T.V. Show: Different Strokes Favorite Genre of Music: Old Rock

What do you find most fulfilling about the ministry of being an altar server? What would you tell a boy or girl who is considering becoming an altar server?

What I find most fulfilling about being an altar server is just overall the help I am providing toward God and our church community. It makes me feel special because I not only help the priest, but I’m also serving God. When you serve at Mass you have to pay close attention to what’s going on and what your duties are and what they mean, so you do feel closer to God when you are serving for him. I like being part of a team and helping other altar servers when I can. It really just warms my heart to see some of the elderly in our community, listen to their stories and when they tell me that I did a good job doing God’s work. I believe that on the altar Jesus is made present and humbly comes to be with not only me

but all of us there. What a special gift and joy it is to serve for God, my priest and my church. I was happy when Bishop (Shelton J.) Fabre allowed us to start serving at Mass again during COVID-19. I couldn’t understand that kids were allowed to play sports, but we weren’t allowed to be altar servers for God; it just seemed wrong to me.

What I would tell a boy or girl considering becoming an altar server is don’t give up even if you mess up and make a mistake. When I first started five years ago, I was very shy and didn’t like to have attention on me, and even today I still worry about making mistakes, but I remember they have wonderful people there that guide us to be better. It’s very rewarding serving

24 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

God. It may be disorienting seeing a whole crowd of people but those people would only give you positive comments about your work. Work hard and keep on trying and you can be as good as the best altar server in your parish. Being an altar server, you can also have fun and help in many other ways like: Participating in the Eucharistic Procession on the Bayou, Walking Way of the Cross, vacation Bible school, Santa Breakfast and Christmas parade, just to name a few in our church parish. I feel privileged that I’m an altar server and I can help others. Just remember this, your talent is God’s gift to you but what you do with it is your gift back to God. BC

Seminarian eDucation burSeS Seminarian Spotlight Rev. Mr. Stephen Castille n What church parish are you from?

St. Bernadette, Houma n Where are you from (born and raised)?

I was born in Lafayette and raised in Church Point, LA. n Where are you studying and in what year of your studies are you?

I am a third year theology student studying at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans. n What are you looking forward to most about priesthood?

Being able to be an instrument of God’s love and mercy n What’s your favorite hobby?

Running n What type of food do you wish would disappear from every menu on the planet?

Fried food n The best advice you’ve ever gotten.

“Never stop discerning God’s will.”

DiD you know?

Seminarian eDucation coStS on average $45,000 a year for eight yearS Seminarian enDowmentS can be nameD enDoweD funDS/burSeS. each year intereSt earneD form the enDowmentS are granteD to the DioceSe to cover annual coStS of their eDucation. catholic founDation of South louiSiana manageS Seminarian enDowmentS for the DioceSe.

all completeD Seminarian eDucation burSeS can be vieweD online at www.htDioceSe.org/vocationS For more information contact the Catholic Foundation at 985-850-3116 or aponson@htdiocese.org June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 25

Special

Academic signing

Nine seniors from Central Catholic School in Morgan City were awarded academic scholarships totaling $777,543. Those pictured are: Mary Frances Cali, Nicholls State University, Thibodaux; Marina Duval, University of Louisiana, Monroe; Madalyn Landry, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge; Ashley Mabile, University of Louisiana, Monroe; Caleb Menina, University of New Orleans; Anthony Saleme, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge; Rylie Theriot, United States Military Academy West Point, New York; Ross Thomas, Auburn University, Alabama. Not pictured is Peyton Skiles, Baylor University, Texas.

26 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

Special

Day For Seniors

Seniors at Vandebilt Catholic High School in Houma were recognized for their college of choice or future career path during an Academic Signing Day program recently. The guest speaker, Julianne DeBlieux, VCHS Class of 2017, spoke to the seniors about what the “next step” would look like and gave her perspective on college life at the University of Louisiana-Lafayette. College representatives, parents and faculty were in attendance with the 138 seniors. There were close to 30 colleges, military branches, and postsecondary education choices represented.

June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 27

June Daily Prayer for Priests, Deacons and Seminarians

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

1

2

3

4

5

Very Rev. Jay Baker

Rev. Paul Birdsall

Rev. Rusty Bruce

Rev. Shenan Boquet

Rev. Thomas Bouterie

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

Deacon Lloyd Duplantis, retired

Rev. Stuart King

Rev. Joshua Rodrigue, S.T.L.

Rev. Michael Bergeron, retired

Msgr. Frederic Brunet, retired

Rev. Domingo Cruz, retired

Seminarian Chad Cheramie

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

Rev. Wilfredo Decal, retired

Rev. Scott Dugas, retired

Msgr. Donald Ledet, retired

Rev. P.J. Madden, retired

Deacon Harold Fanguy, retired

Rev. Roch Naquin, retired

Rev. Ty Nguyen, retired

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

Rev. Charles Perkins, retired

Rev. Amang Santiago, retired

Rev. Caesar Silva, retired

Deacon Jesse LeCompte, retired

Rev. Wilmer Todd, retired

Rev. Jerry Villarrubia, retired

Seminarian Joseph Lapeyrouse

27

28

29

30

Deacon Linwood Liner, retired

Deacon Melvin Marts, retired

Deacon Bertrand Rabalais, retired

Deacon Malcom Andry

Daily Prayer for Clergy and Religious Lord Jesus, hear our prayer for the spiritual renewal of bishops, priests, deacons, brothers, sisters, lay ministers and seminarians of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. We praise You for giving their ministry to the Church. In these days, renew them with the gifts of Your Spirit.

You once opened the Holy Scriptures to Your disciples when You walked on this earth. Now renew Your ordained and chosen ones with the truth and power of Your Word.

In Eucharist you gave Your disciples renewed life and hope. Nourish Your consecrated ones with Your own Body and Blood. Help them to imitate in their lives the death and resurrection they celebrate around Your altar.

Give them enthusiasm for the Gospel, zeal for the salvation of all people, courage in leadership and humility in service.

Give them Your love for one another and for all their brothers and sisters in You. For You love them, Lord Jesus, and we love and pray for them in Your Holy Name, today especially for _______________________. Amen.

Sponsored by:

of the Word 506 Cardinal Drive, Thibodaux, LA • marianservantsoftheword@gmail.com

28 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

Announcement

Deacon Ambrose Ayzinne dies at age 74

Outreach Line In response to the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux is offering an Outreach Line (formerly known as the Child Protection Contact Line). The Outreach Line is an effort to continue the diocesan commitment to support healing for people who have been hurt or sexually abused recently or in the past by clergy, religious or other employees of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Outreach Line operates from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. A trained mental health professional responds to the line. Individuals are offered additional assistance if requested.

Deacon Ambrose Ayzinne

Deacon Ambrose Ayzinne, a native and resident of Thibodaux, passed away Wednesday, April 21, 2021, at the age of 74. Deacon Ayzinne was ordained to the permanent diaconate Dec. 8, 2001, and served as a deacon at St. Joseph Co-Cathedral and St. Luke the Evangelist in Thibodaux. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at St. Joseph Co-Cathedral with interment in St. Joseph Cemetery. He is survived by his wife, Linda Knight Ayzinne; one daughter, Crystal A. Hebert; and one son, Clifford Ayzinne. BC

STAY IN TOUCH INSIDE Marriage

Bayou

Catholic

Do this in remembrance of me MARCH 2018 ~ VOL. 38 NO. 9 ~ COMPLIMENTARY

Find us...

In churches and local advertisers

Bayou Catholic

Follow us... on www.bayoucatholic.org

Like and Share us... with family and friends

Advertise in the Bayou Catholic.

Help spread the Good News.

Call

985.850.3136

The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Outreach Line Telephone number is (985) 873-0026 or (985) 850-3172

Línea de Comunicación Diocesana

Con el fin de cumplir con las Políticas de Protección de Niños y Jóvenes de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Los Estados Unidos, la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux ofrece una Línea de Comunicación (antes Línea de Contacto para la Protección de los Niños). La Línea de Comunicación es parte del esfuerzo diocesano de comprometerse con el mejoramiento de aquéllos que han sido lastimados o abusados sexualmente recientemente o en el pasado por miembros del clero, religiosos u otros empleados de la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux.

El horario de la Línea de Comunicación de la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux es de 8:30 a.m. a 4:30 p.m., de lunes a viernes. El encargado de esta línea es un profesional capacitado en salud mental. Se ofrece asistencia adicional al ser solicitada.

Línea de Comunicación de la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux Número de teléfono (985) 873-0026 o (985) 850-3172

Ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp Giaùo phaän Ñeå höôûng öùng Hieán chöông Baûo veä Treû em vaø Giôùi treû töø Hoäi ñoàng Giaùm muïc Hoa kyø, Giaùo phaän Houma-Thibodaux ñang chuaån bò ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp (luùc tröôùc laø ñöôøng daây lieân laïc baûo veä treû em). Ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp laø moät söï coá gaéng cuûa giaùo phaän nhaèm cam keát haøn gaén naâng ñôõ nhöõng ai ñaõ bò toån thöông hoaëc bò laïm duïng tính duïc hoaëc gaàn ñaây hoaëc trong quaù khöù bôûi giaùo só, tu só hoaëc caùc coâng nhaân vieân cuûa Giaùo phaän Houma-Thibodaux. Ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp Giaùo phaän hoaït ñoäng töø 8:30 saùng ñeán 4:30 chieàu, thöù hai ñeán thöù saùu. Moät nhaân vieân chuyeân nghieäp veà söùc khoûe taâm thaàn traû lôøi treân ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi. Nhöõng caù nhaân seõ ñöôïc trôï giuùp naâng ñôõ theâm neáu caàn.

Ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp Giaùo phaän Soá ñieän thoaïi: (985) 873-0026; (985) 850-3172

for more info.

June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 29

Announcements

Deacon Gerald Rivette Sr. dies at age 86

Informational Pastoral Notice A canonical process, authorized by the Vatican and conducted in accordance with the requirements of the motu proprio of Pope St. John Paul II entitled Sacramentorum Sanctitatis Tutela, has yielded a final determination that Father Stephen Lefort has been found guilty of disobedience and of improper behavior regarding questions asked to minors in confession resulting in his being perpetually forbidden ministry to minors and ministry in settings in which minors are or may be present, such as conventional parochial worship or school events or youth ministry services.

Because of the serious nature of his improper behavior and his continuing refusal even to meet with the bishop, Stephen Lefort will remain unassigned and will possess no faculties for ministry in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

This information is shared in accord with the demands of transparency, out of an abundance of caution, and in the interest of proper pastoral care. BC

Deacon Gerald J. Rivette Sr.

Deacon Gerald J. Rivette Sr., a native of Houston, TX, and resident of Houma, passed away Saturday, May 8, 2021, at the age of 86. Deacon Rivette was ordained to the permanent diaconate June 8, 2006, and served as a deacon at St. Bernadette Church parish in Houma for 11 years. He retired April 25, 2017.

Deacon Rivette was a longtime parishioner of St. Bernadette Church

parish and served as a facility manager at the church. He offered his service to the ill at the hospital, gave Communion at the nursing homes, celebrated the sacrament of baptism and matrimony, including for his own family. He was also a fourth degree Knights of Columbus member and past Grand Knight. The family would like thank St. Bernadette parish’s staff and community for their abundance of love shown to Deacon Gerald throughout the years.

A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at St. Bernadette Church with interment in St. Francis Cemetery No. 2. He is survived by his sons, Gerald J. Rivette Jr., Christopher J. Rivette, and daughters, Karen Musacchia, Rebecca Thurlo, Frances Yeates, Sandra Helmuth. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Frances Flaherty Rivette, and his second wife, Laura Conner Rivette. BC

Your personal financial goals deserve a personal approach.

Walters & Associates A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC 985.446.1968 132 Rue Colette, Ste A Thibodaux, LA 70301 waltersplanning.com

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2020 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. 30 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

Congratulations’ Graduates!

banksynergy.com | 985.851.2217

June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 31

School Life

Bishop reads ‘Everyone Belongs’

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

Bishop Shelton J. Fabre recently visited the third grade classes of St. Genevieve Catholic School and St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School in Thibodaux. The bishop read the book Everyone Belongs. Inspired by the USCCB’s statement Open Wide Our Hearts: The Enduring Call to Love, a Pastoral Letter against Racism,” Everyone Belongs empowers young readers to reflect on the reality of racism in our society, to see it through the lens of history and faith, and act toward respect, understanding and friendship. He taught the students the lesson that hate brings hate and love brings love. The bishop also reminded the students that we are all created in the image of God and that we are all made the same on the inside.

I GOT PAIN FREE GRAY • NEW IBERIA answertopain.com • 985.580.1200 32 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

Announcement

Diocesan chief operating and financial officer accepts position in Atlanta

Jon J. Toups

Jon J. Toups, who has been serving as the chief operating and financial officer for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux since March 1, 2019, accepted an offer to return to his previous industry to become the president and COO of a 50-year-old well established firm in Atlanta, GA, Bishop Shelton J. Fabre announced last month.

“I am grateful to Jon for his time serving with us in the diocese. I, along with the other diocesan leaders, will truly miss his presence in ministry with us,” says Bishop Fabre. “Jon has served us in an exceptional manner, and I express to him great gratitude, and wish him only the best.”

“As I prepare to depart, I must first give sincere thanks to Bishop Fabre, our vicars general, and all the religious and lay employees of our wonderful diocese,” says Toups. “I have watched a culture take hold and people grow in faith and confidence in their gifts, and that will continue to benefit the Catholic faithful here for years to come.”

Toups was involved in the recruitment effort for his replacement and will also be a part of onboarding the new diocesan CFO/COO when hired by the diocese. BC

STAY IN TOUCH INSIDE Marriage

Bayou

Catholic

Do this in remembrance of me MARCH 2018 ~ VOL. 38 NO. 9 ~ COMPLIMENTARY

Find us...

In churches and local advertisers

Call

Bayou Catholic

Follow us... on www.bayoucatholic.org

Rod’s supeRstoRe Name BraNd TV & appliaNces 879-2403

Rod’s supeRstoRe Name BraNd TV & appliaNces 879-2403

Like and Share us... with family and friends

985.850.3136 for more info.

808 Barrow St. • Houma, LA 70360 985-879-2403 June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 33

Sports

Overtime Ed Daniels

High school football won’t be the same without Frank Monica Frank Monica has spent a lifetime being prepared and not fooled, very often.

But, on a Saturday night he fell for it.

He was contemplating not going to a party for a friend.

But, his wife told him not to worry, they wouldn’t stay long.

Little did he know.

In his hometown of Garyville, Monica was given a surprise party.

The 72-year-old, ultra-successful head coach of the St. Charles Catholic Comets was retiring.

Hundreds attended. It was a testament to a lifetime of winning, but more importantly, a lifetime of service.

And, then Frank Monica was truly surprised.

He was told that the football field at Dupuy Memorial Stadium would be named Frank Monica Field.

Louis Authement, who had five sons that played for Monica at St. Charles Catholic, said the field was to carry his name “till the end of time.”

High school football in the state will be diminished without Frank Monica’s presence.

His teams won 284 games. He won state championships at three different schools. At Lutcher, at Riverside, and at St. Charles Catholic.

Frank Monica could be tough on young people one minute, and hug them the next.

His teams always played hard. It was a testament to him, and to his attitude toward practice.

Practices were physical, all season long.

“Your practice habits determine how you play,” said Monica.

He will be missed by his players, but he will also be missed by the media.

One Thursday, I sent one of our sports reporters out to talk to Monica before a big game.

She came back with a big smile on her face.

Reporter: You know what he told me?

Me: What?

Reporter: He told me the other team was so fast, even their cheerleaders run 4.4 (in the 40-yard dash).

34 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

Me: His one-liners worked again.

I frankly don’t know what I will do this summer without a chat with Frank Monica.

Me: Coach, how’s it going?

Frank: We are so bad we can’t break the huddle. We may not make a first down.

Me: (Howl with laughter).

Frank: We are everybody’s homecoming game. We oughta build our own float.

It was the same stuff, every year.

And, man I looked forward to it.

I hope Frank Monica enjoys his retirement. He plans to hunt and fish.

But, relax?

I will believe that when I see it.

I cannot imagine football without Frank Monica, and vice versa.

Here it is the middle of May, and I am dreading it already.

It just won’t be the same.

Frank to player: Son, you were acting out there! You deserve an Academy Award!

Player: (has no idea what an Oscar is).

But, years later, the player will understand just how lucky he was, to be there.

And, to be coached by one of the greats. BC

®

Bayou

Catholic

2O21 du G ra

at i o n

Graduation Contents

Central Catholic

E.D. White Catholic

Vandebilt Catholic

38

40

42

Grand Isle

South Lafourche

44

44

Ellender High

2O21 Gr

at i o u d a

44

n

Thibodaux High

South Terrebonne

Morgan City

45

45

45

H.L. Bourgeois

46 36 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

Central Lafourche

46

Terrebonne High

46

“Entrust your Works to The Lord, and your plans will succeed.”

Proverbs 16:3 742 Highway 182 • Houma, LA 70364 (985) 872-2413 www.cenac.com

Graduation

Central Catholic has 37 graduates for 2021 Central Catholic School in Morgan City’s Class of 2021 chose “Isn’t funny how day by day nothing changes, but when you look back, everything is different” as its class motto. The class color is black; class flower is the gladiolus; and the class song is Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield.

Senior class officers are Haley Fontenot, president; Peyton Skiles, vice president; Sophia Tucker, secretary; Luke David, treasurer.

Class of 2021 graduates are Emily Adams, Bently Alcina, Zachary Bennett, Lucas Brinlee, Jackson Butler, Mary Cali, Emily Colgin, Elise Daigle, Luke David, Marina Duval, Haley Fontenot, Kennedy Grizzaffi, Koen Guillory, Hugh Hamer, Kai Henry, Trent Hillen, Emma Hymel, Joshua Jones, Alanni Landry, Madalyn Landry, Brenna Laubach, Katie Luc, Ashley Mabile, Ethan Majewski, Caleb Menina, Brett Morell, Dayshon Pete, Bryce Quaye, Anthony Saleme, Peyton Skiles, Tyler Templet, Rylie Theriot, Sara Thibodeaux, Ross Thomas, Sophia Tucker, Lana Whittington, Jabari Woods. BC

!

1 2 0 2 of s s la C s on ti la tu a r g Con

MedIcare certIFIed preFerred provIder NetWork phySIcIaN reFerral Not requIred

• Back/Neck care • Work/SportS INjurIeS • orthopedIc MaNual therapy • Foot orthotIcS/Foot care • WellNeSS prograMS • pre-eMployMeNt teStINg • FuNctIoNal capacIty evaluatIoN (Fce) • trIgger poINt dry NeedlINg • certIFIed haNd therapy

985.447.3164

985.876.1155

985.223.4760

808 Bayou Lane, ThiBodaux

1321 Grand CaiLLou, houma

125 Bayou Gardens, houma

www.ptcenter-la.com 38 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

WITH CHRIST WE CAN!

Central Catholic School Class of 2021 CCHS proudly salutes our Class of 2021.

You carry on a tradition of over 128 years of Catholic education in the Morgan City area, and we wish you continued success for a lifetime of accomplishments and contributions.

Central Catholic School 2100 Cedar Street Unit 1 Morgan City, LA 70380 985-385-5372 ~ Fax: 985-385-3444 www.cchseagles.com June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 39

Graduation

E.D. White has 134 graduates for 2021 E.D. White Catholic High School in Thibodaux’s Class of 2021 chose “I wish there was a way to know you’re in the good old days before you’ve actually left them” (Andy Bernard) as its class motto. Class colors are navy blue and light pink; class flower is the water lily; and the class song is Gone, Gone, Gone by Phillip Phillips. Senior class officers are Olivia Fanguy, president; Alya Shanklin, vice president.

Class of 2021 graduates are: Jake Allemand, Aubrey Amedee, Jude Amedee, Luke Amedee, Aynsley Andras, Peyton Andras, Julian Arias, Madeleine Arthurs, Adeline Authement, Chloe Ayo, Chloe Babin, Grace Baldwin, Tyler Barrios, Alyssa Battaglia, Hunter Becnel, Kadie Becnel, Anna Bergeron, Dylan Bergeron, William Blouin, Luke Borne, Brandon Boudreaux, Richard Boudreaux III, Charley Breaux, Landon Brignac, Elise Callais, Peyton Cavalier, Amelie Chadwick, Hillary Chaisson, Heidi Chauvin, Cullen Cheramie, Conner Chiasson, Lani Clifton, Kailee Colon, Jolee Daigle, Mallorie Daigle, Laura DeGravelle, Luke Dempster, Lynsey Domangue, Peyton Duong, Kailyn DuRocher, Nelson Durocher II, Kenneth Fairchild, Olivia Fanguy, Luke Faucheux, Kade Folse, Bella Gautreaux, William Goodnight, Grace Grabert, Paige Granier, Joci Gravois, Cailun Griggs, Matthew Gros, Ellie Guidry, Hayden Guidry, Mason Guidry, Jacob Guillory, Caleb Hagen, Benjamin Hebert, Chet Hebert, Eleanna Hebert, Maria Hebert, John Hildenbrand V, Luke Hue, Dawson Jeansonne, Draven Jennings, Connor LaFleur, Jackson Landry, Abigail LaRose, Allie LeBlanc, Emily LeBlanc, Sally LeBlanc, Catherine LeBouef, Matthew Ledet, Emily Lindner, Madison Lombard, Patrick Lyons, Charlotte Marino, Rebecca Martin, Chloe Matherne, Jackson McCollam, Braedon Methvin, Claire Morales, Jacklyn Morvant, Claire Naquin, Johnathan Nguyen, Annabelle Norwood, Allie Ockman, Lane Oncale, Ronny Ordoyne, Lily Ortte, Thomas Pate, Gabriel Peneguy,

Jude Pere’, Benjamin Pitre, Joshua Pizzo, Abbey Marie Ratcliff, Jacques Rathle, Jacqueline Robichaux, Aimee Rodrigue, Emeline Rodrigue, Sophia Rosado, Collin Sacco, Jaden Sanders, Eli Servat, Alya Shanklin, Jadacia Shanklin, Jenna Shaw, Reece Shelby, Abigail Siegel, Mason Siegel, Sydney Siegel, Ethan Soignet, McKenzie Sonier, Lucy Steib, Ronny Sternfels III, Caleb Sylvest, Holden Tabor, Zachary Templet, John Tenney, Lauren Theriot, Tiffany Theriot, Kennedy Thibodaux, Sydney Thibodaux, Hailey Thibodeaux, Benjamin Toups, Erin Toups, Karlie Toups, Christian Trosclair, Hunter Trosclair, Branton Vicknair, Daniel Wanko III, Megan White, Jadyn Williams, Chase Zeringue. BC

LEARN ROSARY MAKING A Catholic Tradition

Contact us for a catalog and introductory offer!

Daniel J. walker • william a. eroche corporate law will & SucceSSionS eState planning real eState

1340 West tunnel Blvd. suite 306 Houma, louisiana 985.868.2333 • wwelaw.com

40 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

LEWIS & COMPANY Dedicated to Rosary Making!

(800) 342-2400

rosaryparts.com

2020 2021 Living Our Mission Imparting the Catholic Faith

Promoting Academic Excellence

Enhancing Self-Esteem

June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 41

Graduation

Vandebilt has 138 graduates for 2021 Vandebilt Catholic High School in Houma’s Class of 2021 chose “I wish there was a way to know you’re in the good ole days before you’ve actually left them,” (Andy Bernard) as its class motto. Class color is lavender; class flower is the white rose; and the class song is Don’t Blink by Kenny Chesney.

Senior class officers are Kyah Matthews, president; Caroline Lindsay, vice president; Madison Richoux, secretary.

Class of 2021 graduates are Madison Adams, Karoline Alford, Claire Anderson, Lauren Andre, Braden Andrews, Samantha Arnette, Hamilton Barnes, Logan Barthelemy, Joseph Baughman, Abigail Benoit, Madeline Benoit, Sophie Benoit, Joshua Bergeron, Myra Berthiaume, Gabrielle Beyer, Remi Blanchard, Spencer Bonnecarrere, Vanessa Bonner, Luke Boudreaux, Sarah Boudreaux, Charles Bourque, Mia Braxton, Braxton Brien, Cameron Brown, Sarah Brown, Joseph Bui, Landon Cabirac, Enrico Calpestri, Elizabeth Casebonne, Alexis Cayette, Olivia Cenac, Julia Champagne, Rachael Champagne, Raylin Charpentier, Chloe Chatagnier, Michael Clement, Chloe Clemons, Audrey Colwart, Gabriel Comeaux, Joelaya Cooper, Seth Cunningham, Dana Dang, Christian Danos, Emma Danos, Sean Diebold, Alisa Doiron-Miles, Walker Domangue, Brady Drury, Sierra Duncan, Riley Dupre, Cameron Duval, Lauren Eaton, Richard Elfert, Hattie Ellender, Jace Eschete, Lauren Fitch, Annelle Fletcher, Gracie Fournier, Hailey Fox, Caroline Francis, Evan Frank, Braden Gaudet, Dylan Gaudet, Samuel Goodwin, Brian Gramajo, Katelyn Hall, Michael Hamilton, Jackson Hawthorne, Mary Hebert, Hayden Hohensee, Joshua Hoychick, Matthew Kappel, Stephen Kappel, Madison Kimble, Jean-Michael La Salle, Kenedi Labat, Corinne LeBlanc, John LeBlanc, Morgan LeBlanc, Sarah LeBlanc, Christian LeCompte, Kathryn Ledet, Caroline Lindsay, Triston Loney, Bree Lovell, Ian Marmande, Anne Martin, Landon Martin, Lia Martin, Abigail Matherne, Annabelle Matherne, Hunter Matherne, Rafe Matherne, Kyah Matthews, Garin Matzke, Tate Maxwell,

42 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

William McManus, Kathryn Melancon, Ayden Mergey, Tia Miller, Monica Morales, Emma Moreau, Collin Morrison, John Naquin, Mary Naquin, Brandon Nguyen, Nghia Nguyen, Parker Nunnally, Jamie Patterson, Kara Pellegrin, Anna Pennison, Kylie Poche, Hunter Porche, Brianna Pullaro, Zachary Regira, Jacob Rhodes, Claire Richaud, Madison Richoux, Collin Robicheaux, Bryden Roundtree, Ross Ryan, Neal Saltzman, Brooke Sanford, Collin St. Germain, Kaylin Stoufflet, Raegan Stroud, Nicholas Tamberella, Ethan Theriot, Jack Theriot, Saul Theriot, Hayes Thompson, James Thompson Jr., Adeline Trahan, Margaret Trahan, Seth Trahan, Kayden Vincent, John Walker, Ethan Zeringue BC.

Congratulations, graduates!

VANDEBILT CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL Class of 2021

“As you received Jesus Christ the Lord, walk in him, rooted in him and built upon him and established in the faith as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.”

209 S. Hollywood Rd.

l

Houma, LA 70360

l

- Colossians 2:6-7

985-876-2551 l www.vandebiltcatholic.org June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 43

Graduation

Grand Isle Grand Isle School in Grand Isle’s Class of 2021 chose “It is what it is,” (J.E. Lawrence) as its class motto. Class colors are purple and gold; class flower is the marigold; and the class song is Wonderwall by Oasis. Senior class officers are Rhiannon Callais, president; Tristin McCullough, vice president; Hailey Miller, secretary; Keeland Cheramie, treasurer. BC

South Lafourche South Lafourche High School in Galliano’s Class of 2021 chose “Stay Strong,” as its class motto. Class colors are royal blue and silver; class flower is the white rose; and the class song is I Lived​by One Republic. Senior class officers are Maegan Bousegard, president; Katie Louviere and Grant Rebstock, co-vice presidents; Joshua Scioneaux, secretary; Evan Duet, treasurer; Allie Fournier, reporter; and Maggie Cheramie, Jenna C. Eymard, Bailey Melancon, Kylie Sanamo, Halle Terrebonne, representatives. BC

Ellender High Allen J. Ellender Memorial High School in Houma’s Class of 2021 chose “Difficult roads often lead to the most beautiful destinations,” as its class motto. Class colors are red, white and blue; class flower is the red rose; the class song is We’re All in This Together from “High School Musical.”

Senior class officers are Kelsey Jones, president; Vanessa Valadez, vice president; Mercedes Fonseca, secretary; Olivia Crochet, treasurer; Leah Strange, Randell LeBlanc, class representatives. BC

44 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

Graduation

Thibodaux High Thibodaux High School’s Class of 2021 chose “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples,” (Mother Theresa), as its class motto. Class colors are lilac and lemon; class flower is the Tiger Lily; and the class song is I Lived by One Republic.

Senior class officers are Cole Weber, president; Adeline Tenney, vice president; De’Andrew Thomas, secretary; Aysha Burkes, Kamryn Thomas, Sydnie Aysen, spirit coordinators; Abigail Arceneaux, Abby Aysen, Helana Bergeron, Seth Duet, Jacee Dupree, Sydney Knoblock, Grace Landry, Robert Loupe, Mary Grace Morgan, Romy Voorhies, Nghi Theresa Vu, Landon Zeringue, executive board. BC

South Terrebonne South Terrebonne High School in Bourg’s Class of 2021 chose “It is what it is,” as its class motto. Class colors are green and white; and the class song is I’ll Always Remember You by Miley Cyrus. Senior class officers are Lexi LeCompte, president; Halle Pellegrin, vice president; Harley Louviere, secretary; Madison Dehart, treasurer. BC

Morgan City High Morgan City High School’s Class of 2021 chose “Beginnings are usually scary, and endings are usually sad; but it’s everything in between that makes it all worth living,” (Bob Marley) as its class motto. Class colors are lavender and gold; class flower is the white hydrangeas; and the class song is I Will Always Remember You by Hannah Montana.

Senior class officers are Madeline Albritton, president; Mary Frances Vincent, vice president; Hailey Aucoin, secretary; Faith Bailey, treasurer. BC

June 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 45

Graduation

H.L. Bourgeois H.L. Bourgeois High School in Gray’s Class of 2021 chose “With every ending there is a brand new beginning,” as its class motto. Class colors are royal blue and ivory; class flower is the white rose; the class song is “I’ll Always Remember You,” by Hannah Montana. In the absence of senior class officers, Mackenzie Claire Vordick, 2020-2021 High School Student of the Year, was chosen to give a speech at the graduation ceremony. BC

Central Lafourche Central Lafourche High School in Raceland’s Class of 2021 chose “We can do virtually anything! Zooming our way through senior year,” as its class motto. Class colors are green and gold; class flower is the yellow rose; Six Feet Apart by Luke Combs is the class song. Senior class officers are Brennan Falgout, president; Graci Babin, vice president; Hannah Forbes, secretary; Makenzie Martin, treasurer; Breanna Bilbo, reporter; Madison Chauvin, parliamentarian. BC

Terrebonne High Terrebonne High School in Houma’s Class of 2021 chose “It is what it is,” as its class motto. Class colors are crimson and gold; class flower is the sunflower; and the class song is I Will Always Remember You by Hannah Montana. Senior class officers are Reed Henning, president; Jamiesha Stewart, vice president; Kennedy Cruz, secretary; Saliah Granger, treasurer. BC

46 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • June 2021

Spinal Implant Procedures including • INTRATHECAL PUMP IMPLANT • SPINAL CORD STIMULATOR IMPLANT • VERTIFLEX -

(MINIMALLY INVASIVE TREATMENT FOR SPINAL STENOSIS)

DR. HAYDEL IS 1 OF ONLY 3 PHYSICIANS IN THE STATE OF LOUISIANA & IS 1 OF ONLY 20 PHYSICIANS IN THE ENTIRE COUNTRY THAT HAS EXCEEDED OVER 100 VERTIFLEX PROCEDURES

Interventional Pain Procedures including: • EPIDURAL STEROID AND OTHER SPINE INJECTIONS • PERCUTANEOUS DISC DECOMPRESSION • RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION • KYPHOPLASTY FOR COMPRESSION FRACTURES • DISCOGRAM

Wellness/Osteoporosis Clinic Lafayette Location:

Houma Location:

Thibodaux Location:

1101 S. College Road, Suite 202 Lafayette, LA 70503 Phone: (337) 233-2504

1022 Belanger St. Houma, LA 70360 Phone: (985) 223-3132

2100 Audubon Avenue Thibodaux, LA 70301 Phone: (985) 223-3132

www.painspecialty.net

Michael S. Haydel, M.D. FIPP, ABIPP Fellow of Interventional Pain Practice American Board of Interventional Pain Physicians American Board of Anesthesiology